EU nurses in ‘vital role’ as ailing NHS is on the ropes

CLAIMS of a staffing crisis, economic chaos and workers’ rights have all been used to transform Britain’s ailing NHS into a key battleground in the upcoming EU referendum.

Most major health unions have come out to support staying in the EU, saying the breadth of knowledge from across the continent helps prop up our NHS.

And health workers fear an economic recession could trigger yet further crippling cuts for the service.

But Vote Leave campaigners have suggested a large chunk of the UK’s £10.6billion net contribution to Brussels could be diverted to fund the NHS if Britain quits the EU.

John Skewes, director of policy at the Royal College of Midwives, fears a vote to leave the EU could affect nursing standards and even put public safety at risk.

He said: “There’s a shortage of midwives – we are 2,600 short in England alone.

“Without the contribution of EU midwives the system would fall down.

“You wouldn’t think it if you listened to Gove, Johnson or Farage, but those midwives who are working here really make a major contribution.”

Simon Stevens, NHS England chief executive, has previously warned of “a terrible moment” for the health service if it were hit by a recession triggered by leaving the EU.

But Vote Leave’s Lord Owen said staying in the EU was more of a risk to Britain.